DFA Updates Travel Advice on Nigeria

The Department of Foreign Affairs, which updated its travel advice on Friday to advise Irish citizens against all non-essential travel to Nigeria, says: “The security situation in Nigeria, and in Northern Nigeria in particular, is unpredictable and in recent weeks there has been a significant increase in inter-communal clashes, terrorist attacks and civil unrest due to the recent removal of petroleum subsidies. Irish citizens travelling to Nigeria are advised to pay careful attention to local media and to be prepared to change travel plans at short notice.

“Irish citizens are also advised to be aware of a forthcoming national strike scheduled for Monday 9th January 2012. This strike may cause disruptions lasting for many days and may be the source of clashes between protesters and the authorities. Irish citizens are advised to avoid travelling on 9th January, to avoid demonstrations, and to be prepared to experience significant delays to the country’s transport networks.

“We advise Irish citizens against all travel to the following areas: Borno State, Plateau State, Yobe State, Ebonyi State and to the Niger Delta area of the country.

“Irish nationals in Nigeria should be aware that the overall security situation is highly unpredictable and that there is a very high risk of terrorist attack, a high risk of crime, including violence crime, inter-communal clashes and kidnapping and that there is a significant risk of violent civil unrest. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises ALL Irish citizens travelling to or resident in Nigeria to register their details online or directly with the Irish Embassy in Abuja.”